India Seizes US-Sanctioned Iranian Oil Tankers Amid Heightened Maritime Surveillance

India has made significant moves in its waters by seizing three oil tankers linked to Iran and sanctioned by the U.S., a source confirmed on Monday. This action aligns with New Delhi's initiative to intensify maritime surveillance to counter illicit trading practices.

The seizures highlight a turning point in U.S.-India relations, marked by Washington's recent tariff reduction on Indian goods, influenced by New Delhi's decision to halt Russian oil imports. The sanctioned vessels, namely Stellar Ruby, Asphalt Star, and Al Jafzia, were reportedly engaged in identity masking tactics to avoid detection by coastal law enforcement.

Indian authorities deleted their social media post detailing the interception but confirmed that the tankers were apprehended approximately 100 nautical miles west of Mumbai. The Indian Coast Guard is now utilizing several ships and aircraft to maintain round-the-clock monitoring. Furthermore, it's reported that two of the vessels have direct links to Iran.